The Niger State Government has inaugurated an Immunisation Plus campaign aimed at protecting children against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba launched the initiative on Monday in Minna, targeting children and other vulnerable groups. He said the campaign forms part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce maternal and child mortality and improve public health outcomes.
Mr Garba noted that the drive would ensure adequate sensitisation and mobilisation of communities to access routine immunisation services. He urged parents, caregivers, teachers and community leaders to present all eligible children for vaccination.
“Immunisation remains one of the most effective tools for preventing childhood diseases and disabilities,” he said.
The deputy governor emphasised that the state government would continue collaborating with stakeholders to enforce strict adherence to health standards. He warned that refusal to accept immunisation constitutes a violation of existing laws and could attract sanctions, including imprisonment.
Mr Garba also called on traditional and religious institutions to intensify community mobilisation and awareness campaigns, stressing that their involvement is critical to building trust and ensuring vaccine acceptance at the grassroots level. He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Mohammed Umaru-Bago’s administration to achieving a disease-free society.
Polio Resurgence Threat Prompts Action
In his remarks, Health Commissioner Murtala Bagana said the campaign was essential to preventing a resurgence of polio cases in two wards of Chanchaga Local Government Area. He noted that sustained immunisation efforts were necessary to consolidate gains recorded in disease control.
Mr Bagana added that the state had prioritised primary healthcare financing to improve service delivery across health facilities, which would enhance access, quality and community confidence.
Chanchaga Local Government chairman Mustapha Jibrin said measures had been put in place to ensure a hitch-free exercise, including intensified awareness campaigns. He acknowledged initial compliance challenges among some Islamiya schools but confirmed the issue had been resolved following engagement with relevant authorities.
The Immunisation Plus Days campaign will run from May 2 to May 5 across all 25 local government areas of the state.
— NAN